“Well, we are having this conversation right here and right now because of recent examples of classism. We wanted to have a discussion because most of our practices in music education have small examples of classism whether or not we realize it. But before we get into that, let’s talk about our value-systems.”
Tag: music teachers
8 Minutes Can Save you Hours of Rehearsal Time with the Round Robin Rehearsal
Far too often, I have spent so much time drilling one section of an orchestra while the rest of the ensemble sits unengaged and bored. With my Round Robin Rehearsal techniques, you will save countless hours of unengaged time.
Music Teacher Parents: It’s Okay to Say No
This week, we meet with some music teachers who are also parents to chat about managing it all. Erin Stavropolous and Kelley McNamee discuss time management, recruitment,… Read more “Music Teacher Parents: It’s Okay to Say No”
Teaching Love, One Note at a Time
Today, in my classes, we will be playing music and sending love, as we always do. But today, we will be directing our love to the families and victims in Orlando. I urge you today to do what you can in your own lives to send love, to show your support to those who need it, and to fill the world with music, love, and pride.
Snow Day Strategies for Developing Musical Identities!
Posting on social media is so easy. And somehow, it seems to engage some of the students who are just sitting around on their computers. Even if they don’t touch their instruments, at least they are seeing the posts. Perhaps these posts will spark a “rabbit hole” effect in which they search for additional musical cartoons, stories, and pieces of randomness.
Music, Mind, and Education – A Book Review
This journey into the nature of musical experience will enlighten even the most seasoned educator and will perhaps spark the desire for additional research into the curricular development of school music programs.
Rookie Music Teacher Do’s & Don’ts
Sure… They might have thrown a ball at students when they played out of tune (seen it!). Do not comment on this in front of students. Well, who hasn’t conducted with celery sticks and carrots? NO NEW TEACHER COMMENTARY! And of course, when the students tell you, “We just used to take naps in here…” Do not disparage nap time during class (as much as you might be dying inside). Instead, try saying this to the students:
“I know you must have loved your last teacher. She clearly did _________ so brilliantly!”
Inspiration – The Cycle of Awe
Their dedication to his practices is a testament to the relationship between student and mentor and to the quality and depth of his contribution to string teaching. So, I have been thinking about what I need to do to honor those who have inspired me, and to begin compiling my own life’s work. Here are a few of the many people who have inspired me and how I try to honor their role in my life as I progress in daily teaching, researching, and thinking.
MUSIC ED MAJOR RANT
In each year of teaching music, I have always had at least one student who was interested in majoring in music education. Many of them have went… Read more “MUSIC ED MAJOR RANT”